Although already very well established with a raft of flexo presses, digital inkjet and finishing lines, the management team at Vista realised that they needed to add an alternative digital print method and also some form of back-up for their existing inkjet press. In particular, they needed to add more variable data print capability and a reliable method of printing large solid areas. A digital toner press seemed to be the solution – but which one?
Once described as the ‘greatest weapon in the armoury of the modern commander’, the role of the printing press has certainly changed over time, yet its importance today is as steadfast as it was when Lawrence of Arabia was fighting alongside Arab forces in the Middle East. Today, the worldwide printing industry is worth a staggering £821bn, but while businesses may be tempted to cut back on their expenses during times of economic uncertainty, there are several compelling reasons why high-quality label printing remains a critical asset for customers.
Modern label production is a complex, multilevel process, with plenty of room for waste to develop, and equally as much scope for improvements in efficiency and reducing waste. Modern print equipment aims to increase productivity, usually measured in faster, smarter print cycles, higher product volumes, and the number of printing tasks that can be carried out by each press. But productivity is only one side of the equation. On the other sits efficiency, which is measured in how much (or how little) time, money, and resources are needed to carry out each task.
Eco-friendly printing is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to protecting our planet. Sustainability is not only good for the environment but also good for business. Customers are increasingly aware of their impact on the environment. Green printing is a good way of increasing your product’s marketability to eco-conscious customers. However, there are two mistakes that can cause all your efforts to be wasted:
Jams and blockages are an occupational hazard of the label printing industry and, although you can take steps to avoid them happening on a regular basis, it is also helpful to know what to do in the event that they occur. Every printing press is different in terms of its setup, but jams and blockages can usually be attributed to one of a small number of common causes. None of them should disrupt the productivity of your printing works for long, but can easily do so if handled improperly.
Once every four years the textile machinery industry comes together for a mammoth exhibition. Preparations are well underway for this year’s international trade show for Textiles & Garment production. ITMA is the trendsetting textile and garment technology platform where the industry converges every four years to explore fresh ideas, effective solutions and collaborative partnerships for business growth. Organised by ITMA Services, the upcoming ITMA will be held from 20 to 26 June 2019 in Barcelona at Fira De Barcelona, Gran Via.
